Asda be different to Middlehaven

I was somewhat concerned at the article (Gazette, News, 29.5.06) which said objections may be raised by Middlesbrough Council over the plans for a new Asda store in South Bank, which I believe is on the existing site at Asda's current location.

I was somewhat concerned at the article (Gazette, News, 29.5.06) which said objections may be raised by Middlesbrough Council over the plans for a new Asda store in South Bank, which I believe is on the existing site at Asda's current location.

I would hope when Middlesbrough's planning committee meet they would not lodge an objection to Asda's planning proposals as, on the face of it, the application for new build on their existing site appears to be reasonable - although Middlesbrough's planning officers say the planning application "would not comply with national and Tees Valley planning policies".

What would be of concern is if this planning application developed into a Middlehaven situation, when Asda's application was called in by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and was rejected, although there is a significant difference as Asda are looking to expand on their existing site at South Bank.

I think the new build at South Bank and the new George store in Middlesbrough will benefit the whole of Middlesbrough and help regenerate surrounding areas.